Submarine (2011)
Written and Directed by Richard Ayoade
I drowned in excess quirk watching Submarine, a cloying coming-of-age dramedy about a young teen who attempts to lose his virginity and save his parents’ marriage at the same time.
First time writer-director Richard Ayoade has a very distinctive voice, which is impressive. Not all novice filmmakers can express their voice so clearly in their debut motion pictures. But my problem is, I didn’t like his voice. At all. It’s relentlessly offbeat and idiosyncratic, making it impossible for me to give a damn about Oliver or his folks. (Never mind his would-be lover, Jordana, one of the most annoying characters I’ve seen on screen all year).
I’m not sure what I’m missing here. The reception of Submarine is fairly upbeat. Then again, in more ways than one, the film reminds me of the work of Wes Anderson, who is revered as a creative individual and whose appeal I still do not get.
But what do I know?
I really warmed to this film. I was a bit unsure in the beginning, but slowly got into it. The characters are all oddballs, it’s all very Welsh, but an enjoyable little film.
Personally, for the most part, I don’t get Wes Anderson films, so I was surprised I enjoyed this one.
Hit enter too quickly!
… enjoyed this one what with it being all very quirky.
Better you than me, Jaina! I tried, I really did. I watched it all the way through, and I couldn’t get past the quirk-factor. And I LOVE quirk, I do! But this one just rubbed me the wrong way.
Glad you got something out of it, though.
Yeah, this film was a big bomb for me. Too cute by half.
Couldn’t agree more, man!
I haven’t seen this one but I only heard good things about it. For some reason though I suspect when I watch I may not end up loving it – stories like this, adorable ones about young people don’t work at all times.
It certainly does sound appealing from the outset. I was certainly attracted to it, compelled enough to bring it home for an evening of unbridled romance and imagination.
All I got was a cheap date.
Hmm, like some of the other commenters, I’ve heard mostly good things about this. Your review is a pretty refreshing change of pace. Still want to see this at some point though.
Yeah, it’s worth a look if you’re interested in finding new and exciting filmmakers. Ayoade is certainly a skilled newcomer, but I just didn’t enjoy the characters or the story here. Once those are out of the equation, nothing else matters here.
I look forward to your thoughts!